Croatia enters the 2026 World Cup with elite talent at the top of the roster, but questions about their potential to make a deep run. Here’s a full preview of Croatia’s national team, including predictions, betting odds, key players and more.
World Cup History
- Seven appearances
- Best finish: Runner Up
- FIFA Rank: #11
- 2026 Group: L
Croatia reached the 2018 World Cup final and finished third in 1998 and 2022. Few nations have over-performed on the World Cup stage as consistently. Their tournament résumé is extraordinary for a country of Croatiaʼs size.
Group Stage Matches
- Croatia vs. England: June 17, 4:00PM ET
- Croatia vs. Panama: June 23, 7:00PM ET
- Croatia vs. Ghana: June 27, 5:00PM ET
Major Storylines, Predictions
Croatiaʼs tournament know-how makes them dangerous again. The opener against England is one of the best early group-stage matchups. Even as the squad evolves, Luka Modrićʼs leadership and Croatiaʼs midfield intelligence remain central to their identity. These veterans could lead their nation to another surprisingly deep run in 2026.
Soccer Analyst’s Prediction: Croatia makes a serious bid as a final eight appearance, but falls just short in the Round of 16.
Croatia 2026 World Cup Squad
Key Players
- Luka Modric | Midfielder | AC Milan
- Joško Gvardiol | Centre-back | Manchester City
- Mateo Kovačić | Midfielder | Manchester City
- Andrej Kramarić | Midfielder | TSG Hoffenheim
Croatia 2026 World Cup Odds
- To Win The World Cup: +9000
- Projected Top Goalscorer: Andrej Kramarić (+350)
- To Win Group L: +320
- To Qualify for Knockout Stage: -500
Find all of the Croatia World Cup 2026 lines on DraftKings Sportsbook!
More World Cup Coverage
Check out our World Cup 2026 landing page for additional content and live, updating group tables as the tournament begins!
